The Impact of Technology on Long-Term Care

Technology plays a vital role in our day to day lives. Older adults and their children rely on the advances of technology to complete many daily tasks such as communicating with family and friends, controlling their homes’ environmental settings and security and researching information.

Artificial intelligence and technology have become integral parts of our lives, allowing us to access information like never before. “The study of AI began as a defense project in the 1960s with the goal of understanding how humans process information. The concept was to replicate that processing with devices that will do it more reliably and without error,” reports McKnight’s Long-Term Care News. It is with this concept in mind that technology has been introduced into long-term care facilities to enrich the quality of life for the residents who live there.

The Role of Technology in Long-Term Care

Technology has become essential to a growing population of aging seniors and baby boomers. In fact, many people consider the technological advancements of a long-term care community to be just as important as other factors when deciding where to live.

An article published by the National Center for Biotechnology Information entitled “Technology for Long-Term Care,” suggests that many communities are focusing on incorporating technology into the fabric of their communities and the care they provide to residents.

In addition to providing better care, other reasons behind the technological push include:

Attracting tech-savvy residents

Decreasing staff turnover

Maintaining financial viability amid regulatory compliance

Reducing liability, given the shortage of nursing staff

Surviving competition from the increasing number of long-term care housing options

Healthcare isn’t the only industry that has shown an interest in investing in technology. Private initiatives such as the Center for Aging Services Technology (CAST), government agencies including the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), technology-based companies including Intel and Microsoft and universities have all invested in a broad range of new technologies to benefit and support older adults.

There is no denying it: we live in a rapidly advancing society and long-term care communities must embrace technology to remain competitive.

The Top Technologies in Long-Term Care

1. Activity Sensors and Biosensors

Can be embedded in (i.e. a pacemaker), worn (i.e. lifeline devices) or placed in a residents’ environment (i.e. fall prevention technology) to monitor overall health and wellness risks.

2. Electronic Health/Medical Record (HER/EMR) Systems

These systems provide complete information about residents, including their allergies, conditions, medications, needs and preferences.

3. Electronic Records Sharing

With electronic records sharing health providers (including hospitals, physicians and other primary care providers) can electronically share the health records of residents to ensure no small detail is missed. According to iAdvance Senior Care, “this is extremely important for elderly residents, particularly around transitions of care.”

4. Intuitive Computers

Graphic-user and touchscreen interfaces are beneficial for both residents and staff. Frontline staff can more efficiently perform the duties of their role, including electronic documentation and voice-activated data entry, while residents can stay connected with email, internet browsing, memory boosting activities and social networking.

6. Wireless Data Communication

Wireless data allows handheld devices, laptops and tablets to be used as mobile, point-of-care systems. No longer do front line staff have to be tethered to a wired work station, they can now provide direct patient care – and access state-of-the-art medical technologies such as e-prescribing and physician electronic order entry systems – wherever the patient may be.

According to the National Center for Biotechnology Information, “one of the greatest potential benefits from current and emerging technologies would be a possibility to provide a new person-centered environment in LTC settings.”

About Post Author

Kimberley Fowler is a writer and editor dedicated to improving seniors' lives through education, activism, volunteerism and community programs. Her other passions include yoga, literature, history, education and conservation. She is active in her local community and currently volunteers with the Hamilton Naturalists' Club. Kimberley earned a Master of Arts in English Literature and Language from the University of Windsor, an Honours Bachelor of Arts from Wilfrid Laurier University and a Bachelor of Education from the University of Toronto. View Kimberley's website or connect with her on Twitter @kimsfow and LinkedIn.

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